The surname Debarras is an occupational name; that is, it is derived from the occupation of the original bearer. In this case, it is derived from the Old French word bar, which means bass; sea bass are a staple fish found in the Mediterranean. Occupational names frequently were derived from the principal object associated with the activity of the original bearer, such as tools or products. These types of occupational surnames are called metonymic surnames.

Early History of the Debarras family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Debarras research.Another 369 words (26 lines of text) covering the years 1755 and 1829 are included under the topic Early Debarras History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Early Notables of the Debarras family (pre 1700)

Another 23 words (2 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Debarras Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Debarras family to the New World and Oceana

Some of the first settlers of this family name or some of its variants were: Jacques Barras, who settled in Louisiana in 1765; Joseph Barras settled in Louisiana in 1757; Joshua Barrass settled in America in 1719 and Joshua Barras, aged 21, settled in Annapolis in 1721..

The Debarras Motto

The motto was originally a war cry or slogan. Mottoes first began to be shown with arms in the 14th and 15th centuries, but were not in general use until the 17th century. Thus the oldest coats of arms generally do not include a motto. Mottoes seldom form part of the grant of arms: Under most heraldic authorities, a motto is an optional component of the coat of arms, and can be added to or changed at will; many families have chosen not to display a motto.